5 Ways to Sneak Turmeric into your Food

Looking for a boost to get that “healthy eating” resolution off the ground? When it comes to eating healthy, spices are usually ignored. But, turmeric can cleanse your insides in no time, boost the health benefits of foods you are already eating, and of course, jazz up a meal with interest, depth and flavour.

A part of the ginger family, turmeric has been used in Indian, Middle Eastern and Asian cuisines for centuries. It also gives American mustard its bright yellow colour. Turmeric pairs well with other spices like cinnamon, black pepper, nutmeg and ginger as well.

As a medicinal spice, it is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, lowering the risk of diseases such as arthritis and joint pain. It can also soothe sore muscles, increase circulation, relieve headaches and brighten up your skin. There’s a reason it’s said to be one of the world’s healthiest foods!

There are lots of easy (and fun!) ways to sneak turmeric into your food and drink. Here are our five favourites:

1- Blend it into a smoothie

Enjoy smoothies as breakfast or an afternoon snack? Sneak a bit of turmeric in there – perfect for a smoothie packed with protein-fuelled greens (think spinach or kale), banana and almond milk.

2- Turn it into a cocktail (our favourite!)

Who said healthy eating and a fun cocktail don’t go hand in hand? This is a Chit Chaat Chai favourite, and we sneak some turmeric into our Mystery in the Dark cocktail – our twist on an Old Fashioned. Think turmeric and ginger dark rum, fig, angustora and turmeric. Grab a seat at the Chit Chaat Chai bar, and we’ll whip one up for you in no time.

3- Make tea

Also dubbed “liquid gold,” this is an easy way to get the health and skin-boosting benefits of turmeric. Here’s the recipe for the Turmeric Tingle – Chit Chaat Chai’s take on the turmeric tea:

Directions: Boil 1 mug worth of water in a kettle. Pour the hot water into your mug. Add in the ginger, mint leaves, honey and turmeric. Squeeze in the lemon. If you like, leave the lemon wedge inside your mug for an extra zing. Sit back, sip and enjoy!

4- Sprinkle over some greens

Add a dash of turmeric over sautéed vegetables, like kale or cabbage. Or, simply sprinkle it directly over your salad or blend into any salad dressing – while the flavour will largely be hidden, the health benefits won’t!

5- Soup-er Food

A sprinkle of turmeric over a warming bowl of soup can lift anyone’s spirits. Try it over a bowl of your favourite – anything from potato & leek, carrot & ginger, vegetable, or even chicken soup. At Chit Chaat Chai, the Tarkha Daal (our spin on the lentil soup) never goes without a dash of the golden spice.